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ContactA Perfect 2-Day Itinerary for Exploring Gatlinburg, Tennessee
By Nick K, Posted on Find deals on hotels, homes and much more... 
Gatlinburg is a popular travel destination located in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It offers a range of outdoor activities, scenic views, local cuisine, and entertainment. If you are planning to visit Gatlinburg for a short trip, here's a 2-day itinerary that covers some of the must-visit attractions and experiences.
Day 1
Start the day with breakfast at a local restaurant or cafe. Gatlinburg has plenty of options to choose from, including Crockett's Breakfast Camp, Pancake Pantry, and Flapjack's Pancake Cabin. After breakfast, head to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is just a few minutes' drive from downtown Gatlinburg.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known for its scenic beauty, hiking trails, and wildlife. Some of the popular trails include the Laurel Falls Trail, Alum Cave Trail, and Chimney Tops Trail. You can also go on a scenic drive through Cades Cove or Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. If you prefer a more adventurous activity, you can try ziplining or white water rafting.
After spending a few hours in the national park, head back to downtown Gatlinburg for lunch at a local eatery. Some of the popular options include Calhoun's, The Peddler, and Smoky Mountain Brewery. After lunch, explore the Gatlinburg SkyBridge and SkyDeck, which offer panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains. The SkyBridge is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America and is a popular attraction in Gatlinburg. The SkyDeck also offers glass panels that allow visitors to see beneath their feet.
In the evening, enjoy dinner and drinks at a local restaurant or brewery. Some of the popular options include the Gatlinburg Brewing Company, Ole Red Gatlinburg, and The Park Grill.
Day 2
Start the day with breakfast at a different local spot. Some options to consider include The Pancake House, Log Cabin Pancake House, and Pancake Pantry. After breakfast, visit the Gatlinburg Space Needle, which offers 360-degree views of the city and the Great Smoky Mountains. The observation deck is located at the top of a 407-foot tall tower and offers a unique perspective of the area.
After visiting the Space Needle, take a stroll through the Village Shops and Gardens. The Village is a quaint shopping area that features unique stores, local artisans, and beautiful gardens. Some of the popular stores include The Cheese Cupboard and Hofbrauhaus Restaurant & Cheese Cupboard. You can also enjoy an ice cream cone or a cup of coffee at one of the cafes in the area.
For lunch, try a local spot in The Village, such as The Donut Friar or The Village Cafe and Creamery. After lunch, explore the Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, which features a variety of aquatic life, including sharks, stingrays, and penguins. The aquarium also offers interactive exhibits and educational programs for visitors of all ages.
In the evening, enjoy dinner and drinks at a different local restaurant or bar. Some popular options include the Cherokee Grill, The Greenbrier Restaurant, and Crawdaddy's Restaurant & Oyster Bar.
Conclusion
Gatlinburg offers a range of experiences for visitors, from outdoor adventures to culinary delights. This 2-day itinerary covers some of the must-visit attractions and activities in the area. However, there are many more things to see and do in Gatlinburg, and we encourage you to explore the city and create your own itinerary.
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